The Dark Side of Online Classifieds

June 12, 2017

The world of the internet can be an amazing and fantasy-like place, but it is also home to some of the darkest corners of the internet. Some of these scary places are hidden under multiple surfaces and can be difficult to find, but some dark sides can be easily be found on common sites likes Craigslist or Backpage. Here are five experiences you can find on the dark side of online classifieds sites.

Sex Workers

On sites like Craigslist and Backpage, you will find whole sections and categories dedicated to online dating and meetings. You don’t have to dig deep to find sex workers, escorts, and paid fetishists looking to be hired. A lot of them are obvious about their listings, but some can be discreet and use words like “exotic massage available for $200.” If the price isn’t a huge tip off, then their less-than-savory photos are. Hookers aren’t even scratching the surface when it comes to this dark corner of the online classifieds. If you take a closer look you can find fetish workers who specialize in kink-centric services revolving around vomit, scat, and BDSM.

The “Other” Pharmacist

It’s no secret that users can find a wide trove of illegal and prescription drugs through online classifieds sites. Craigslist is one of the biggest hosts to “alternative” pharmacist listings. Drug dealers aren’t shy about their listings and wares either. They will even post pictures of their illegal merchandise and can spot a cop from a mile away. Drug dealers take advantage of the website’s anonymity feature and won’t reply if they suspect you are law enforcement. The Internet has transformed many businesses and illegal drug trades have adapted alongside with it. Drug abusers no longer have to wait around in dark allies. They can just do a quick search online and meet up with their dealer at a Starbucks.

The Weird & Wonderful

If you are looking to buy some of the weirdest and most unique items and services available in the world, then look no further than your local online classifieds listings. Craigslist is home to some unique lists such as custom genital-shaped couches, handmade soap made from avocados, or even bulk mystery meat for sale. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything custom or strange, you can take a quick scroll through the listings for some quick laughs and giggles. Be careful, you might stumble upon something truly scary and discover the listing is available a few houses down from your own.

Weapons Cheaper Than Furniture

You might have to dig a little deeper for this on online classifieds sites and go to less common ones. If you do a little extra searching and happen to stumble upon this dark corner of the internet, you will find a treasure trove of illegal weapons and firearms for sale with a price cheaper than a sofa. It’s easier to buy a gun than most people think it is, which is honestly the scariest part about finding online listings for weapons.

Horror Movie-Like Experiences

If you thought going on a date with someone you met on Tinder is scary, then you have never heard from a friend the absolute horror story it is to meet someone they found off of an online classifieds site. Tons of strange people gather on these sites looking for love, but many of them lack social skills or are into some really dark kinks. A quick internet search for Craiglist horror stories will yield millions of results, which is terrifying. Read through a couple of them and you will truly understand how many dark sides online classifieds sites have.